A focus group to collect opinions and brainstorm solutions around Roanoke’s aging civic center has wrapped up its work. But its final meeting included a stark reminder of the challenges it faces.
Roanoke’s Berglund Center has two sold-out shows coming up: the farewell tour of pop metal superstars Journey in June, and bluegrass musician Billy Strings in July. But those kinds of shows could be in danger, as the city questions the Berglund Center’s future.
The city regularly subsidizes the facility, which includes a 10,000-seat coliseum, a 2,000-seat performing arts theater, a special events center and a conference hall…